08-19-2006, 12:46 AM
[cool][#0000ff]It's 
but true that any watercraft is subject to seam failure after a period of time. The combination of inflation, water soaking and drying, ultraviolet rays, heat and cold, and all that other stuff simply weakens any type of fabric and thread. [/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Some are made better than others and never seem to have problems. However, even a "quality" craft like those made by Outcast are not impervious to the effects of age. \[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Thankfully, most of the time you can repair the seams with good thick nylon thread and the repairs are as good or better than the original stitching. I had a D ring on the bottom (one of the backpack connections) tear loose on mine. I restitched it and reinforced it with some Aquaseal. For good measure, after it was dried and cured, I drilled two holes through the repaired connection and used small bolts, nuts and washers to really make sure. That connection will still be good long after I am planted.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]After you get back, if you are still not totally confident in your repair, take the cover to a canvas and awning place and have them run a quick stitch on it. Better than buying a new tube.[/#0000ff]
[signature]
but true that any watercraft is subject to seam failure after a period of time. The combination of inflation, water soaking and drying, ultraviolet rays, heat and cold, and all that other stuff simply weakens any type of fabric and thread. [/#0000ff] [#0000ff][/#0000ff]
[#0000ff]Some are made better than others and never seem to have problems. However, even a "quality" craft like those made by Outcast are not impervious to the effects of age. \[/#0000ff]
[#0000ff][/#0000ff]
[#0000ff]Thankfully, most of the time you can repair the seams with good thick nylon thread and the repairs are as good or better than the original stitching. I had a D ring on the bottom (one of the backpack connections) tear loose on mine. I restitched it and reinforced it with some Aquaseal. For good measure, after it was dried and cured, I drilled two holes through the repaired connection and used small bolts, nuts and washers to really make sure. That connection will still be good long after I am planted.[/#0000ff]
[#0000ff][/#0000ff]
[#0000ff]After you get back, if you are still not totally confident in your repair, take the cover to a canvas and awning place and have them run a quick stitch on it. Better than buying a new tube.[/#0000ff]
[signature]